Autism, more specifically autism spectrum disorders (ASD), is a clinically heterogeneous group of mental developmental disorders. To be diagnosed with autism, a child must exhibit impairments in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted, stereotyped, repetitive behavior. Also, children with autism have an uneven profile of development of higher mental functions and peculiarities of sensory information processing. These features of such children create difficulties for their school education, which indicates the need for an individualized approach.
Optimal conditions for the learning process for children with autism
The possibilities of a teacher to implement an individual approach to a child with autism in a full class are limited. Certain techniques can be applied in this case, but the effectiveness will be low. Optimal conditions for adapting the learning process for children with autism are created in a small class, where the teacher can devote more time to a particular student, or if there is a tutor in the class, who can help the student and the teacher in their work. The tutor can help those children who are having difficulties at the moment or specific children who are in constant need of adult assistance.
Tips for parents to prepare a child with autism for school
1. Tell your child about why he or she is going to school and what to expect from the first school year.
The best way to reduce the anxiety of a child with autism before entering the first grade is to tell him or her in advance what to expect. Explain why they need to go to school (not all children with autism understand why they need to change routines and leave the home). Show what the school building looks like, how learning will be organized, how the child’s daily routine will change, and who he or she will meet in the first school year.
If possible, arrange for the child to meet the teacher before the school year begins. Prepare a social history with pictures of the school and teachers. Each day, work with your child to cross off the days on the calendar until the school year begins.
2. Prepare everything you need for school: briefcase, uniform, notebooks and writing materials.
It’s not just the obvious things like a briefcase, uniform, change of shoes, gym clothes, communication equipment, notebooks, pens and pencils, but also making sure your child doesn’t need anything and feels comfortable. Choose with your child a snack container and a bottle to drink from. Think about what toys or gadgets they will take to school with them.
3. Get your child used to a new morning routine and encourage him or her to stick to it every day.
Start waking your child a little earlier each morning to get him or her used to getting up on time before the first day of school. You should have a few “dress rehearsals” before the end of summer vacation so that nothing out of the ordinary happens to your child on the morning of the first school day. Make a visual schedule so that the child understands how his morning will be structured (washing, dressing, breakfast, collecting his briefcase, transportation to school). Reward your child for successfully following the routine.
4. Give your child a tour of the school.
This can be arranged with your child’s teacher or another member of staff. This way your child can get used to the school environment before the school year starts. During the tour, visit the cafeteria, restroom, gym, library, outdoor playground. Together with your child, think about the most convenient route to school and draw a map with identifying signs that will help your child feel confident.
5. Inform the teachers about the child’s individual characteristics.
The class teacher and other school staff should get to know the new pupil in advance so that they can get to know him or her better. If a face-to-face meeting is not possible, you can send them a letter informing them of the child’s strengths and weaknesses, possible sensory issues, typical unwanted behaviors, etc. Don’t forget to make a copy of the letter for the school psychologist, speech therapist, physical education teacher and other staff.
6. If your child is prone to sensory overload, provide him or her with a favorite item for stimulation.
Fidgets and other special items help children with autism cope with sensory overload. Make sure your child has them on hand. Explain to teachers that these are not toys that distract children from learning, but self-regulation aids that a child with autism needs.
7. Once the school year begins, closely monitor your child’s progress and mental state.
During the first few weeks of school, get to know all the teachers. This will help you track your child’s progress and show your interest in the learning process. Help your first grader do homework, follow a daily schedule, manage sensory overload, and control unwanted behavior. Monitor your child’s social adjustment and how he or she communicates with tutors and other students. At the first sign of bullying, report it to the teacher or school administration.
The role of school staff in the successful adaptation of a child with ASD
In order for a child with autism spectrum disorder to successfully adapt to school life, it is important that the entire school community is prepared to work with these children. The support of teachers, psychologists and other staff members helps to create a comfortable and safe environment for the child.
The class teacher and teachers should adapt lessons and teaching methods to the child’s characteristics, paying more attention to his or her individual needs. Regular feedback between parents and teachers will help to identify difficulties and take action in a timely manner.
A psychologist plays a key role in the child’s social adaptation, and a speech therapist helps to establish communication and develop self-expression skills. It is also important that there is a tutor in the classroom, who will help the child in difficult situations, supporting him in moments of overload.
In addition, the school’s medical staff should be aware of the child’s condition, medication and other needs to prevent stressful situations.
Conclusion
Adapting a child with autism to school is a complex and multifaceted process that requires attention, patience and close cooperation between parents, teachers and other professionals. It is important to create conditions for the child that will help minimize stress and maximize his or her potential. Both an individualized approach and the support of school staff play a key role in this process.
In addition, caring for a comfortable school environment, following a routine and paying attention to your child’s specific needs will help them feel confident, cope with possible difficulties and develop fully. It is important for parents to remember that each step in preparation – whether it is familiarizing them with a new environment or creating a comfortable learning environment – brings them closer to successful social adaptation and academic achievement.
